The ever-changing nature of careers in criminal justice and the advancing role technology is playing in the field means that while a degree education is not compulsory for many positions, having a higher level of education is becoming increasingly desirable.

Christopher J Hall, the director of the Criminal Justice Technology program at Central Carolina Technical College, told the Item that a good degree will give students a foundation in each area of the criminal justice system so they can find out what type of work appeals to them - and what to expect when they enter their chosen profession.

With more than 300 occupations related to criminal justice - ranging from law enforcement to posts in correctional facilities, criminal law and police administration - it is important for graduates to get as much experience as possible, he added.

He therefore encourages students to back up their "book learning" with internships and educational programs offered by criminal justice agencies - such as the online course available through the website of the Department of Homeland Security.

According to the Department of Labor, careers in criminal justice can also encompass roles such as lawyers, paralegals, probation officers, private detectives and revenue agents.

Graduates with criminal justice degrees can also pursue postings with federal agencies such as the FBI, the CIA and Homeland Security.